Stick To Your Guns Weigh In On Gun Control & Law Enforcement Issues With New Song

After the latest social/political shitstorm, that seems to engulf the US on a monthly basis now, Stick To Your Guns have released a new single to speak out against violence and hatred - on each and every single side.

Universal Language', was released through the bands/songs website - titled Betterashthandust (the title of a new album, maybe?) - to coincide with the ever-present debate about gun control and the recent police shootings and shootings of police officers in the United States of last week.

In a statement posted to the website from the band's singer, Jesse Barnett, states that the song wasn't going to be released this early and dedicates it to all victims of terrorism and hatred around the globe. You can read it in full below.

"We weren't going to release this song until a later date but we decided that this would be a perfect time with what's happening right now in America that has everyone's attention. 

Let me first start off by saying I have been known to say a lot of harsh and disagreeable things about Police. A lot of what I say about them is emotional but none the less it's what I think. I come from a family of military people and I have family in the San Antonio Police Department, and yes I still mean the things I say. I have a firm distrust and dislike for anyone who takes a role of authority or superiority over another life. It has been proven historically, socially, and scientifically that people with such strong positions of power WILL abuse them. However, this does not mean I wish harm or death upon ANYONE. 

There is a problem in our country with how people in black and other communities of color are treated by law enforcement. As a white kid it is impossible for me to relate to this. Sure, I can spend all day imagining what it may be like, but the bottom line is I have not been met with even an ounce of the violence or hate that these communities have become accustomed to. I am a privileged individual and I won't be guilty of it anymore. I will recognize my privilege and I will use it to stand against these obvious injustices that take place everyday. 

This song is for Alton Sterling. This song is for Philando Castile. This song is for the individuals who were killed in Dallas. This song is for the 215 people who lost their lives in Baghdad on July 3rd. This song is for the people of Oaxaca, Mexico. This song is for the world who only communicates with violence and to those who only open their mouth when things get bloody. There is a better way and I am confident we will get there some day."

- Jesse Barnett"

The song also features a solid guest vocal spot from Counterparts singer, Brendon Murphy in the second half. I'd say that we call all expect a new full-length album from STYG later this year, through their new label home, Pure Noise Records.

Now, while this new song is a rather run-of-the-mill STYG track - from the riffs, vocals and breakdowns - the time frame and political climate in which it has been released within makes it a far more potent track, I find. Anyway, enough of my ramblings, go find out for yourself just below.